About Michael R.

About Michael

Michael has worked with kids for 10 years in schools and arts programs to find fun and their best self through performance. He has taught orchestra, chamber music, jazz band and music theory in the public schools, while performing in local ensembles in and around the city. He also has studied drama, voice and movement and believes all these skills help in expressing yourself--no matter what pieces you want to play!

In addition to working with students K-12, he also loves working with adults. I try to provide a nurturing atmosphere for someone trying revive or discover previously hidden musical interests!

*** Lesson Details ***We begin with what we love. The student usually chooses one of his or her favorite songs to interpret. Later, we add music, usually from the classical or jazz fields, that build our skills and help us f

eel successful. All technique is based on real music. Learning scales, keys and music theory become part of the music. By the end of 6 months, we will have a "repertoire" of several songs that express our best self!

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Reviews

zeph S. August 4, 2014·Viola·In studio

Great teacher very knowledgeable and works with you on whatever pieces and style you want to do not just general music. Highly recommended!

Lawrence M. November 6, 2013·Piano·

Motivated

I'm a senior citizen that still works. I played some other instruments when I was younger and always wanted to play piano and Michael has motivated me to continue to learn and fit my practice into my work schedule. Anyone who wants to learn to play an instrument should look no further then Michael.

Susan D. November 1, 2013·Piano·

Excellent teacher

We are thoroughly pleased. The lessons are a highlight of the week........Michael knows how to challenge as well as have fun with each lesson. Thanks for all you do and accommodating us when the schedule requires.................

Michael R.

Michael R.

About Nicolas R.

In addition to playing violin, I've also played viola in duets, trios, and string quartets, and is another beautiful instrument to learn.

My approach includes providing the student with a good foundation of both left and right hand technique using a combination of method books which reinforce note-reading and proper posture for the first year. We then start adding solo pieces from the Classical repertoire and supplement those with modern pieces from Pop, Latin, Jazz, or any other style the student would like to learn.

Students always get a well-rounded education with me on the string instruments I teach AND are prepared to play either alone, or in groups when the opportunity presents itself.

Happy Practicing!

About Nicolas

Hello there, future string players and welcome to my profile!!

I was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and raised in Miami, FL. I started my musical career at the age of 8, singing in chorus, playing the recorder, and shortly afterwards moving to the guitar, and the violin.

When I was 15, I was nominated for a James L. Knight Award in Music, and I performed as a violin soloist with the Miami Beach Symphony Orchestra, and the Greater Miami Youth Symphony playing Mozart's Violin Concerto No. 3 in G major. One of my most memorable experiences when I was a kid! In high school, I formed my own string quartet and we would perform all over the South Florida community especially at hospitals and for the elderly. At 16 years old, I was also given an internship with the New World Symphony, conducted by Michael Tilson Thomas, for about 2

years. During this time, I was able to take lessons from master violinists such as Marc Thayer and Glen Cherry. During this time, I was given the opportunity to perform with the New World Symphony at 17 years old for pops concert conducted and performed by Chuck Mangione in El Doral, FL.

I later on accepted a scholarship for violin performance at the University of Miami for my Bachelor of Music, and earned my Master of Music from Florida State University. I also taught string orchestras for 10 years at Ruth K. Broad Bay Harbor K-8 Center, South Florida Youth Symphony as conductor (and now composer!), and conductor of the Greater Miami Youth Symphony. I was appointed Assistant Conductor of the Alhambra Orchestra for two seasons under the guidance of my high school orchestra teacher, Mr. Reginald Nicholson (1947-2011). It was here where I was able to work on my compositions, orchestrations, and conduct a fine group of musicians.

I now live in sunny Los Angeles, in the Sherman Oaks area, and I'm loving the new change. I am eager to share my knowledge with new students on various subjects such as learning a string instrument to learning a different language. Please feel free to ask me any questions.

I am looking forward to getting to know you and your goals for learning! ____________________________________________________

LESSON DETAILSI have been teaching music as an adult, certified teacher since I was in college, but have done teaching as early as 15 years old.

I will help you create a fantastic technical base so you will be able to play with ease as your skill level develops, all while keeping the lessons fun and engaging.

TRAVEL EQUIPMENTI can provide a music stand and basic materials but the student is expected to have their own instruments and to buy the music I recommend. I can recommend various vendors/shops where you can buy the ideal instrument for your lessons.

EXPERTISEI am classically-trained musician that also specializes in Tango performance, Latin/Jazz, Rock, and a variety of other styles. I believe that training in the classical aesthetic will create a firm, solid foundation to crossover into other areas listed above. With a good dose of technical exercises, scales, and a variety of repertoire, my students always turn out well-rounded, ready to tackle almost any kind of music they wish to learn.

Thank you for stopping by and let me know what you would like to learn!

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Reviews

Ethan K. March 6, 2018·Violin·In studio

Amazing experience. Can’t wait for the next lesson. Nicholas was patient, knowledgeable and we loved the format of the lesson.

Carsten B. January 2, 2018·Cello·In home

Nicholas is very friendly and made me feel welcome, understanding and adjusting the pace as I needed. It was a great experience and I am feeling motivated to practice on my own. I am no music expert, and yet I think he's absolutely great.

Irene S. December 28, 2017·Cello·In studio

Nicolas is very nice, knowledgeable and professional. I am really enjoying my lessons and plan to continue on!

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Nicolas R.

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Nicolas R.

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About Daren F.

Want to play better in school or youth orchestra? OR have you always wanted to learn how to play the violin or viola? It's never too late!

About Daren

Daren has been teaching violin and viola students since 1999 in Cincinnati and Columbus, Ohio. Former students have performed with the Cincinnati Symphony Youth Symphony, have been consistently top chairs in their school orchestras, have performed at Regional and All State Orchestras and several students subsequently attended college at nationally recognized conservatories.

About Daren:

A native of Cleveland Ohio, Daren has performed in the United States and abroad as a soloist, chamber musician and orchestral musician. Over the past decade, Daren has performed on violin and viola with the Fundacion Sinfonia, under the musical direction of Phillippe Entremont, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, the Columbus Symphony Orchestra, Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, and Cincinnati Chamber Orchestra, Redlands California Symphony, Santa Barba

ra Symphony, and for recording sound stages in Hollywood and Burbank California, among others. Daren's solo, chamber music and orchestral performance engagements have been heard in the continental United States, Canada, Caribbean, Italy, Germany, and Portugal.

Daren's past appearances include soloist with the Opera Theater of Lucca with performances in Lucca and Florence, Italy, co-principal viola at the Heidelberg Festival, Heidelberg, Germany, section violist for the Grand Teton Music Festival under music director Eiji Oue, Wyoming, among others. In the past Daren has toured with A.R. Rahman, Indian composer of Bombay Dreams and Slumdog Millionaire in Dallas, Houston, San Francisco, and Vancouver, B.C. Daren has performed with Rod Stewart, Don Henley, Harry Connick Jr., Mannheim Steamroller, recorded with the Phillip Fox band in Columbus, OH, the Blessed Union of Souls and Cari Clara in Cincinnati and has performed and recoded with KD Lang for "Mountain Stage" a syndicated NPR program, recorded and filmed an episode of HBO's Curb Your Enthusiasm.

Daren earned his bachelors degree from the Eastman School of Music and his masters degree from the College - Conservatory of Music, University of Cincinnati. His previous professors include violists Martha Katz, James Dunham, George Graham, Masao Kawasaki, Catherine Carroll, Lucien Joel, and Alicia Tremmel.

Daren currently serves as Director of Operations and Artistic Administration for the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra. Formerly, Daren served as sold Performance Manager and Orchestra Personnel Manager for the Columbus Symphony Orchestra and as Artistic and Orchestra Operations Manager for the Cincinnati Chamber Orchestra.

*** Lesson Details ***Lessons with Daren take on a life and pace as necessary and are specific to each student. All students learn at different paces and I cater to each student's needs and learning ability. I have taught students as early as first grade thru 80 years old. I am easy going, fun natured but expect my students to maintain a minimum practice regimen. Typically I use a combination of Suzuki Method Materials (if applicable), technique books, music theory and note reading, and scales.

*** Travel Equipment ***Instrument, Music stand, sheet music

*** Specialties ***Suzuki Methods and Traditional Methods

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Reviews

Jennifer C. October 26, 2014·Violin·In home

Daren was incredible with our first time violin player. He helped our son learn the basics and explore his interest in violin. After 5 lessons we were sold that our son would want to stick with learning violin.

Anna S. July 23, 2014·Violin·In home

Fab.

Caitlin V. June 20, 2014·Violin·In home

Apart from being an exceptional violinist, Daren is friendly, personable and a great teacher. I had never played the violin before but he broke things down in a way that made sense to me. His tips and foundational instruction brought results by the end of just the first lesson. I'm excited to learn more!

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Daren F.

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Daren F.

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About Martina S.

I love the viola; I'm primarily a violist and love nothing more. I would love to share my passion with you or your child!

I have a Master's degree in Viola Performance, and viola is my primary instrument. I have received extensive instruction on the minutiae of the viola, and can help you with any need that you many have!

I tailor my approach to each student. Some students require more technical work, some require interpretive. Both are fascinating and can be taught with structure and clarity.

About Martina

Hi! My name is Martina and I am a classically trained violist. In May of 2013 I received a Master of Music from Roosevelt University, where I studied with Lawrence Neuman of the Chicago Symphony. I received an undergraduate degree from the University of Wisconsin with Sally Chisholm of the Pro Arte quartet. The only thing I love more than playing viola is sharing the joy of music with others! I've received training on violin and viola and can't wait to start teaching you or your child.

*** Lesson Details ***I tailor my approach to each student to make sure that: 1.) The student is getting exactly what he/she wants out of the lessons. 2.) The lessons are an appropriate difficulty for the student. 3.) A student's strengths and weaknesses are being addressed with a tailor-made lesson plan and long-term goals.

*** Travel E

quipment ***I can provide a stand. Student is responsible for purchasing an instrument, and any sheet music. I can definitely advise on an instrument to purchase and will instruct with specific music requests.

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Reviews

MacKenzie October 20, 2017·Violin·Online

MacKenzie April 5, 2017·Violin·Online

MacKenzie Stokes August 3, 2016·Violin·Online

Martina is very skilled at what she does, and she is an amazing teacher. She pointed out all of my strengths and weaknesses at the first lesson, and she always teaches at my pace and not her own, giving me the opportunity to completely learn something before moving on to more difficult things. She is overall a very friendly person who you will feel incredibly comfortable to be around, and she always does the best job that she can to teach me every single lesson. I look forward to our lessons every week, and I am simply amazed by how much I am progressing under her guidance.

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Martina S.

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Martina S.

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(15)

starting at

$35
/ 30-min

About Calvin G.

Drawing from a wide array of performance and teaching experiences, I tailor unique lessons to Viola and Violin students of all kinds who are ready to take their playing to the next level. I hold all of my students to a high level of achievement, while integrating their personal goals into my lessons. Students will learn basic skills, advanced techniques, music theory, music history, among other subjects to help inform effective and enjoyable performances. What do you want to achieve? Let me know and let's work together to get there!

About Calvin

As a classically trained violist with orchestral, chamber, and solo performance experience, my teaching style is geared towards performance and expression. I don't adhere to any one book of teaching, adjusting my teaching to the unique needs of each student. My teachers came from different pedagogical backgrounds; as a result, I have a wide array of teaching tools available to pass on to my students. I have taught with the Longy School of Music's El Sistema program and had a Teaching Artist residence with Cambridge Public Schools. I hold a BM in Viola performance from the Lamont School of Music and a MM in Viola Performance from the Longy School of Music.

I have played viola since I first began my musical studies at age 9. As a result, I have seen teachers hold viola students back, simply because they play the "lesser" instrument in th

e viola family. I do not hold my students back and I hold them all to the same high level of playing, regardless of which instrument they play.

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Reviews

Joseph S. February 28, 2018·Violin·In studio

Calvin was awesome. He let me sit in as my fiance took a lesson. It was a relaxed atmosphere and he was a great teacher.

Umesh October 8, 2017·Violin·In home

Calvin is a great teacher. My first lesson was really good.

Rich D. January 2, 2017·Viola·In studio

I've never had any experience with orchestral instruments before. After one lesson with Calvin, I'm learning to read music again. He showed me proper technique as well. I feel that I will be progressing quickly under Calvin's instruction. My first lesson flew by, and I learned so much in a very short amount of time. His attention to smaller details in technique are very helpful as well. I absolutely recommend Calvin as a viola instructor!

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Calvin G.

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Calvin G.

Broomfield, CO 80020

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About Ava P.

I started viola 4 years ago in order to expand opportunities and get to know more about this amazing instrument, but I began teaching about 1 year ago. I am comfortable teaching beginners to advanced students, and incorporate basic music theory, note reading, and any other skills a student may require based on their skill level.

About Ava

A recent Master of Music graduate of University of Colorado Boulder, Ava began her violin studies at the age of six. During her undergraduate degree at Truman State University, Ava was a two-time Gold Medal Concerto Competition finalist and regularly appeared as concertmaster with the Truman State Symphony orchestra, where she has also held the positions of principal second violinist and principal violist.

As an active chamber musician, Ava was the first violinist in Truman State University’s President’s String Quartet, the university’s only highly competitive string chamber ensemble. She toured Italy twice with the President’s String Quartet, performing recitals in 2013 and 2015.

At CU, Ava has served as concert master and principal second violinist of the Eklund Opera Orchestra, principal second violinist of the University of Co

lorado Chamber Orchestra, and as a section violinist with the University of Colorado Symphony Orchestra. During the summer of 2016, she travelled to Italy as part of CU's "Renaissance in the XXI Century" program where she studied with Alberto Bologni and performed a wide variety of chamber music.

Ava is currently pursuing her Doctorate of Music in Violin Performance at the University of Colorado-Boulder under Professor Harumi Rhodes. Her past teachers include Dr. Sam McClure, Julie Lundgren, and Kathy Karpicke.

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Reviews

Sarah December 1, 2017·Viola·In studio

Excellent!

Jennifer June 11, 2017·Violin·In home

My 9 year old says, "She's awesome. She will help you if you are stuck."
I say that Ava is always on time and very accommodating. We have had to change our schedule a few times, but we have always found a way to make lesson time work. Thank you!

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Ava P.

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Ava P.

Boulder, CO 80303

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starting at

$35
/ 30-min

About Leah K.

Lessons are tailored to fit each individual student's ability and goals. I believe in challenging students while maintaining a supportive and encouraging environment. Lessons will cover music theory, technique, and solo pieces. The goal is to develop in each student the specific skills needed to play a string instrument as well as to nurture an understanding and love for music.

About Leah

Violist Leah Kovach grew up in Salt Lake City and is a member of the Colorado Symphony Orchestra. She has performed and taught across four continents with ensembles such as the Schleswig-Holstein Music Festival, the New World Symphony, and the Houston Symphony. She completed her studies at Indiana University and Rice University.

Leah studied the Suzuki Method at Indiana University with Brenda Brenner, who is currently president of the American String Teacher's Association. Prior to joining the Colorado Symphony, Leah taught private violin and viola lessons in four Houston area school districts. Leah enjoys teaching private lessons, group lessons, and coaching chamber music ensembles. Leah was the string coach for the 2013 Kinkaid School Orchestra China Tour, has given masterclasses in Cali, Colombia, and served as artist-faculty at th

e 2015 Musicagiovana festival in Majano, Italy.

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Leah K.

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Leah K.

Denver, CO 80222

starting at

$35
/ 30-min

About Kostadin D.

Lessons are tailored to fit each individual student's ability and goals. I believe in challenging students while maintaining a supportive and encouraging environment. Lessons will cover music theory, technique, and solo pieces. The goal is to develop in each student the specific skills needed to play a string instrument as well as to nurture an understanding and love for music.Lessons take place at my apartment near Governor's Park in Capitol Hill, Denver. Students are expected to prepare for and participate in Winter and Spring studio recitals. In addition to lessons, students are strongly encouraged to participate in a music ensemble program such as Suzuki group classes, school orchestra, or youth or community orchestras.

About Kostadin

I was raised in a musical family in my home country of Bulgaria, where I attended a highly competitive full-time performing arts school from age 6. I was trained in the Russian school of violin playing and have found this to be a very successful method for my younger students in the United States. Another important pedagogical mentor for me is my viola teacher at Rice University, Ivo-Jan Van der Werff, who has developed a systematic approach to building technique fundamentals in advanced violists and violinists. I believe that studying music is very valuable for instilling self-motivation, discipline, and dedication for students of all ages. I was involved in the Mercury Orchestra's outreach partnership with YES Prep schools, which serve underprivileged communities in Houston. I was also a string specialist at the Village School in Housto

n, and my students there and in other public schools in the area excelled in the All-Region and All-State competitions.

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Reviews

Courtney February 13, 2017·Violin·In studio

I love his supportive and positive nature.

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Kostadin D.

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Kostadin D.

Denver, CO 80222

(1)

starting at

$40
/ 30-min

About Lisa W.

A private Viola instructor for almost 15 years, my students have gone on to participate in prestigious Youth Symphonies, and festival orchestras at the Regional and All-State levels. I focus on building a strong foundation of bow and left hand technique, with students participating in selecting repertoire they enjoy for auditions, talent shows, or just for fun! I specialize in classical, but have worked in multiple styles, and utilize a variety of books for scales, exercises, and solo pieces.

About Lisa

Lisa has a Bachelor's of Viola Performance from Brigham Young University, where she had access to little known music in the Primrose International Viola Archive. At BYU she studied primarily with Dr. Claudine Bigelow, Dr. LeeAnn Morgan, and Scott Lewis of the Utah Symphony.

Lisa has been teaching viola for almost 15 years, beginning with the co-founding of a non-profit program at her local high school teaching low-income elementary students, and spanning over a decade of private instruction for students of all ages and levels. She is well-versed in multiple methods such as Galamian, Flesch, Auer, Primrose, Kreutzer and more!

Lisa gears instruction to the needs of the student. Although she teaches primarily classical style, many students like to supplement with more modern music, and Lisa is adept at choosing appropriate solos and e

xercises to support techniques in any genre. Lisa believes music lessons should be fun and help students feel at ease!

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Reviews

Eric August 18, 2017·Viola·In studio

My son Peter started with Lisa as his first Viola teacher. He had studied piano for about 5 years and Lisa came with high recommendations as Peter went from piano to viola. Peter eventually progressed to an hour long session. Peter performed with the Metropolitan Youth Symphony for 2 years and his first year with the Phoenix Youth Symphony all with Lisa guiding his talented bow. Lisa has been a major influence in Peter's continued success with the viola as he has performed with the Arizona State Orchestra in 2016 and 2017. Lisa is an inspired teacher and a wonderful person.

Rhonda June 6, 2017·Viola·In studio

I been taking lessons from Lisa for over a year. I picked up the viola after a 25 year break. She has always been very patient with me. I have learned a lot and am very satisfied with my progress. She is knowledgeable and a skilled musician. Lisa is a very friendly and up-beat teacher. I would recommend her to students of all ages and abilities.

Geoffrey May 6, 2017·Viola·In home

Lisa Williams has been my daughter's 1st viola teacher for the past year and a half. What she has accomplished with her has been nothing short of amazing. My daughter, Lillie, has progressed through the 1st 4 Suzuki book levels, & is preparing with Lisa to audition for the Phoenix Youth Symphony. Lisa quickly developed a rapport with Lillie & gave her the foundation for playing, reading music & understanding how to prepare for auditions. Lisa blends traditional approaches of classical music instruction & music theory with contemporary methods & musicality. She instills confidence through her teaching & positive reinforcement & gives effective critiques without negativity. Lisa is a consummate professional who cares about her students & her passion for music is infectious. Lisa challenges Lillie & as a result, she can't wait to play new music & learn new scales. Lisa has also inspired Lillie to help her friends with tuning & technique at school. :). Great teacher & better person.

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Lisa W.

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Lisa W.

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$25
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About Megan H.

It is my goal as a teacher to "decode" each individual student's personal learning style. I strive to create a fun and safe learning environment and to instill the values of lifelong learning and improvement in my students.

About Megan

Megan is currently pursuing her Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Violin Performance with Professor Harumi Rhodes at the University of Colorado-Boulder. She recently served as a Kalamazoo Symphony Artist Scholar while completing her Master of Music and Artist Diploma in Violin Performance at Western Michigan University, where she served as the graduate teaching assistant to Professor Renata Artman Knific. Megan holds a Bachelor of Music degree in Violin Performance from the University of Iowa under the tutelage of Dr. Scott Conklin. Megan has held principal positions with the Western Michigan University Symphony Orchestra as well as the University of Iowa Symphony and Chamber Orchestras, and section positions with the Southwest Michigan and Holland Symphony Orchestras.